Planning an Andaman trip from Chennai is relatively straightforward because Chennai is one of the mainland cities with both air and passenger-ship connectivity to Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram). For most holiday travellers, flying from Chennai International Airport to Veer Savarkar International Airport is the quickest option. Passenger ships from Chennai are also available, but the sea journey takes considerably longer.
How to Reach Andaman from Chennai?
The two main ways to travel from Chennai to Andaman are by flight and by ship.
| Travel Option | Route | Approx. Travel Time | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight | Chennai → Port Blair | Around 2 hr 10–15 min nonstop | Most travellers |
| Ship | Chennai → Port Blair | Around 50–60+ hours | Travellers interested in sea travel |
There is no road or railway connection across the Bay of Bengal between Chennai and Andaman. Port Blair is the principal gateway for tourists arriving in the islands. The official Andaman administration confirms air connectivity between Chennai and Port Blair and passenger-ship services between Chennai and Port Blair.
For a normal holiday, the practical route is:
Chennai International Airport → Port Blair / Sri Vijaya Puram → Hotel → Ferry → Swaraj Dweep or Shaheed Dweep
If you are travelling to Havelock or Neil Island, remember that your journey does not end when your flight lands. You may need a separate ferry transfer from Port Blair.
Chennai to Andaman by Flight
Flying is the most time-efficient way to travel from Chennai to Andaman.
The air route is:
Chennai International Airport (MAA) → Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ), Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair)
Current flight-route information lists nonstop service on the Chennai–Port Blair route, with a flight distance of about 1,370 km and a scheduled flight time of around 2 hours 15 minutes on the route. Current schedules should always be checked for your exact travel date because flight frequency and timings can change.
The official Andaman tourism website identifies Veer Savarkar International Airport in Sri Vijaya Puram as the gateway to the islands and lists Chennai among the cities with regular flight connectivity.
Chennai to Port Blair Flight Route
Departure: Chennai International Airport (MAA)
Arrival: Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ)
Destination: Sri Vijaya Puram, commonly known as Port Blair
Approximate air distance: 1,370 km
Nonstop flight time: Around 2 hours 10–15 minutes, depending on the flight
The exact flight duration may vary slightly because of the aircraft, routing and operational conditions.
Airlines Operating Chennai–Port Blair Flights
Current route information shows IndiGo and Akasa Air operating nonstop Chennai–Port Blair services. Air India Express is also listed for this route for a later 2026 schedule period, so travellers should check the airline’s current availability for their intended date.
Because airline schedules change, do not select a flight based only on an old timetable. Check the latest schedule and fare before booking.
Is There a Direct Flight from Chennai to Andaman?
Yes. Nonstop flights operate between Chennai and Port Blair.
This makes Chennai an important mainland departure point for travellers planning an Andaman trip from Chennai.
Current route data shows nonstop flights from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Port Blair (IXZ), with a flight time of roughly 2 hours 15 minutes.
However, flight schedules can change by date and season. Therefore, travellers should check the current airline schedule before finalizing their hotel and ferry bookings.
Why a Direct Chennai to Port Blair Flight Is Convenient
A nonstop flight can make the journey considerably simpler because you do not need to:
- Change aircraft at another mainland airport
- Wait several hours for a connecting flight
- Transfer between terminals at a connecting airport
- Add another connection to your itinerary
This can be particularly useful for:
- Families with children
- Honeymoon couples
- Senior citizens
- Travellers with limited vacation time
- First-time visitors to Andaman
Chennai to Port Blair Flight Duration
The Chennai to Port Blair flight duration on a nonstop service is approximately 2 hours 10–15 minutes, depending on the scheduled flight. Current route data lists about 1,370 km between the airports.
| Route | Approximate Flight Time |
|---|---|
| Chennai → Port Blair nonstop | About 2 hr 10–15 min |
| Chennai → Port Blair with connection | Longer; depends on layover |
| Chennai → Port Blair by ship | About 50–60+ hours |
The total time for your holiday journey will be longer than the flight duration because you also need to consider:
- Airport check-in
- Security procedures
- Baggage collection
- Airport transfer
- Ferry check-in if travelling onward to another island
Chennai to Andaman Total Travel Time
For example, a traveller staying in Havelock/Swaraj Dweep has a journey that may look like:
Home/Hotel in Chennai → Chennai Airport → Flight → Port Blair Airport → Cab → Ferry Terminal → Ferry → Swaraj Dweep → Hotel
Therefore, do not plan your itinerary solely around the two-hour flight.
Distance from Chennai to Andaman
The approximate Chennai to Port Blair air distance is around 1,370 km. Current flight-route sources list the distance at approximately 1,370 km.
The actual distance experienced by a traveller depends on the mode of transport.
| Travel Mode | Approximate Distance/Route |
|---|---|
| By air | Around 1,370 km |
| By sea | Longer sea route; approximately 1,460 km is commonly cited |
| By road | Not a practical mainland-to-island route |
| By train | No direct railway connection |
The distance should not be confused with travel time. Although Chennai and Andaman are geographically separated by the Bay of Bengal, a nonstop flight takes only a little over two hours.
Chennai to Andaman Flight Cost
The Chennai to Andaman flight fare is not fixed.
Airfare can change according to:
- Travel date
- Booking date
- Airline
- Seat availability
- Holiday periods
- Weekend demand
- School holidays
- Festival periods
- Baggage requirements
- Fare type
For this reason, it is better to check the fare for your exact travel date rather than relying on a fixed price published in an evergreen article.
Current fare listings can change frequently, and some search platforms show different prices depending on the date and booking conditions.
How to Reduce Chennai to Port Blair Flight Cost
Travellers can compare fares and consider:
- Booking flights in advance
- Checking several travel dates
- Comparing nonstop and connecting options
- Avoiding very high-demand travel dates where possible
- Checking baggage inclusions
- Comparing one-way and return fares
Do not assume that a particular airline or date will always be the cheapest.
What Is the Cheapest Way to Reach Andaman from Chennai?
The answer depends on your travel date, airfare and personal requirements.
For a short holiday, travellers generally compare the current cost of a Chennai to Port Blair flight with the much longer passenger-ship journey.
If you are trying to reduce your total trip cost, consider:
- Comparing different flight dates
- Booking early when suitable fares are available
- Comparing nonstop and connecting flights
- Choosing accommodation according to your budget
- Comparing ferry categories
- Booking required ferry tickets in advance
- Avoiding unnecessary inter-island transfers
The lowest airfare is not necessarily the lowest total trip cost. A flight with an inconvenient connection, extra baggage charges or additional accommodation may change the overall budget.
Can You Reach Andaman from Chennai by Ship?
Yes. Chennai is one of the mainland ports with passenger-ship connectivity to Port Blair.
The Andaman & Nicobar Administration states that regular passenger ship services operate between Port Blair and Chennai, Kolkata and Visakhapatnam. It also notes that Chennai and Kolkata generally have multiple sailings during a month, while schedules remain subject to the operating programme.
The official Directorate of Shipping Services is responsible for mainland-island passenger shipping services, including the Port Blair–Chennai sector.
Chennai to Andaman by Ship Travel Time
The sea journey takes much longer than flying.
The South Andaman administration states that the voyage from mainland ports takes approximately 50–60 hours during fair weather.
Therefore, a ship journey can take around 2½ days or more, depending on the sailing and conditions.
Who May Consider Travelling by Ship?
A ship journey may appeal to travellers who:
- Enjoy long sea voyages
- Have sufficient holiday time
- Want an alternative to flying
- Are interested in experiencing the journey itself
- Prefer a sea route for personal reasons
For a short 4-night or 5-night Andaman holiday, the long sea journey can consume a significant portion of the vacation.
Chennai to Andaman by Flight vs Ship
| Feature | Flight | Passenger Ship |
|---|---|---|
| Departure | Chennai Airport | Chennai port |
| Arrival | Port Blair Airport | Port Blair |
| Journey time | Around 2 hr 10–15 min nonstop | Around 50–60+ hours |
| Frequency | Flight schedule varies | Limited sailing schedule |
| Suitable for short holiday | Yes | Less practical |
| Sea experience | No | Yes |
| Weather impact | Generally less relevant to route | Can affect voyage |
| Booking | Airline/travel portal | Shipping service/authorized booking channel |
The choice depends on your available time and the type of journey you want.
How to Reach Havelock/Swaraj Dweep from Chennai
If your final destination is Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island), you normally first travel from Chennai to Port Blair/Sri Vijaya Puram.
The journey is:
Chennai → Port Blair → Ferry Terminal → Swaraj Dweep
After landing at Port Blair Airport, you need to travel to the relevant ferry terminal and board a ferry to Swaraj Dweep.
The Andaman tourism department confirms regular inter-island ferry services from Sri Vijaya Puram connecting the populated islands and tourist destinations.
Important Tip for Chennai Travellers
Do not book your Chennai flight and Havelock ferry independently without checking the connection time.
Your itinerary needs to allow time for:
- Flight arrival
- Baggage collection
- Airport exit
- Cab transfer
- Ferry terminal reporting
- Ferry boarding
The Directorate of Shipping Services currently advises passengers to report two hours before scheduled sailing and notes that embarkation gates close 30 minutes before departure.
How to Reach Neil/Shaheed Dweep from Chennai
For Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island), the usual tourist route begins with the same mainland journey:
Chennai → Port Blair → Ferry → Shaheed Dweep
Depending on the itinerary and available ferry connections, travellers may also visit Swaraj Dweep before continuing to Shaheed Dweep.
When planning the trip, check the ferry schedule for the exact travel date rather than assuming that a particular sailing operates every day.
How to Reach Port Blair Airport from Chennai Airport
Your mainland flight departs from:
Chennai International Airport (MAA)
and arrives at:
Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Sri Vijaya Puram, commonly known as Port Blair.
After landing:
- Collect your baggage.
- Exit the airport.
- Meet your pre-booked cab or arrange your transfer.
- Travel to your hotel or ferry terminal.
- Continue with your Andaman itinerary.
If you are staying in Port Blair for the first night, an airport-to-hotel transfer is straightforward to arrange.
If you are going directly to another island, coordinate your airport transfer and ferry schedule carefully.
Best Time to Travel to Andaman from Chennai
Andaman has a tropical climate, so weather and sea conditions should be considered when planning your holiday.
For a Chennai traveller, the best travel period depends on what you want to do.
Peak Tourist Season
The period with strong tourism demand is generally popular for:
- Island sightseeing
- Beach visits
- Water sports
- Scuba diving
- Snorkeling
- Honeymoon trips
- Family holidays
During high-demand periods, flights, hotels and ferries may become more heavily booked.
Monsoon Period
During rainy periods, weather and sea conditions can affect:
- Ferry operations
- Water activities
- Outdoor sightseeing
- Beach plans
This does not mean every day will have bad weather, but travellers should keep some flexibility in their itinerary.
Best Time for a Chennai to Andaman Holiday
Instead of choosing dates only because they are considered “best,” consider your priorities:
For beach and water activities: choose a period with generally favourable sea conditions.
For budget travel: compare off-peak dates.
For families: consider school holidays and book well in advance.
For honeymoon couples: plan around weather, hotel availability and ferry schedules.
How Many Days Are Enough for an Andaman Trip from Chennai?
The ideal duration depends on your available leave and the number of islands you want to visit.
3 Nights / 4 Days
Suitable for a short holiday.
Possible focus:
- Port Blair
- Cellular Jail
- Corbyn’s Cove
- One additional island experience depending on ferry availability
4 Nights / 5 Days
A practical option for travellers who want to combine Port Blair and one major island.
Possible route:
Chennai → Port Blair → Swaraj Dweep → Port Blair → Chennai
5 Nights / 6 Days
Allows a more relaxed combination of:
- Port Blair
- Swaraj Dweep
- Shaheed Dweep
6 Nights / 7 Days
Provides more flexibility for sightseeing and island travel.
7 Nights or More
Suitable for travellers who want a longer holiday and potentially include additional destinations, subject to practical transport connections.
For travellers coming from Chennai, remember that the direct flight is relatively short, but ferry travel between islands still takes additional time.
Places to Visit in Andaman After Reaching from Chennai
Once you arrive in Andaman, you can explore several popular destinations.
Cellular Jail – Port Blair
The Cellular Jail is one of the most important historical attractions in Port Blair.
Visitors can explore the historic prison complex and, where available, attend the Light & Sound Show.
Corbyn’s Cove Beach
Corbyn’s Cove is a popular beach close to Port Blair and can fit conveniently into a Port Blair sightseeing itinerary.
North Bay Island
North Bay is known for marine activities and boat-based excursions.
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island
Formerly known as Ross Island, it is associated with the colonial history of the Andaman Islands.
Radhanagar Beach – Swaraj Dweep
Radhanagar Beach is one of the major attractions of Swaraj Dweep and is commonly included in Andaman holiday itineraries.
Elephant Beach
Elephant Beach is popular for marine and water-based activities, subject to operational and weather conditions.
Kalapathar Beach
Kalapathar is another scenic beach on Swaraj Dweep.
Bharatpur Beach – Shaheed Dweep
Bharatpur Beach is a popular stop on Shaheed Dweep.
Laxmanpur Beach
Laxmanpur Beach is known for its coastal scenery and sunset experiences.
Things to Do in Andaman
A Chennai to Andaman holiday can include a combination of sightseeing, beaches and marine activities.
Popular activities include:
- Scuba diving
- Snorkeling
- Sea walking
- Glass-bottom boat rides
- Jet ski
- Parasailing
- Beach sightseeing
- Island tours
- Sunset viewing
- Cellular Jail visit
- Light & Sound Show
Activity availability can depend on weather, location and local operating conditions.
Andaman Tour Packages from Chennai
Travellers looking for a convenient Andaman trip from Chennai can consider different package formats.
Andaman Budget Tour Packages from Chennai
Designed for travellers who want to control the overall holiday budget while covering major attractions.
Andaman Family Tour Packages from Chennai
These can include:
- Airport transfers
- Hotels
- Ferry tickets
- Sightseeing
- Private or shared cabs
- Family-friendly itineraries
Andaman Honeymoon Packages from Chennai
A honeymoon itinerary can include:
- Beach stays
- Private transfers
- Radhanagar Beach
- Couple photography
- Candlelight dinner
- Water activities
Andaman Luxury Tour Packages from Chennai
These may include premium accommodation, private transfers and upgraded travel arrangements.
Andaman LTC Packages from Chennai
Travellers using applicable LTC benefits should check the current rules and eligibility requirements before making bookings.
Chennai to Andaman Travel Tips
1. Book Your Flight First
Your flight timings influence the rest of the itinerary.
2. Check the Ferry Before Finalizing Island Hotels
If you are visiting Havelock or Neil Island, coordinate your ferry and hotel dates.
3. Keep a Buffer Between Flight and Ferry
Avoid planning a very tight airport-to-ferry connection.
4. Check Baggage Rules
Airline baggage allowances can differ by fare type.
5. Carry Valid Identification
Keep the ID used during your travel bookings readily available.
6. Check Ferry Reporting Requirements
The Directorate of Shipping Services advises passengers to report two hours before scheduled sailing for its services.
7. Keep Some Flexibility
Weather and operational conditions can affect sea transportation.
8. Do Not Overload Your Itinerary
Andaman is an island destination, so travel between islands takes time.
9. Book During High-Demand Periods in Advance
Flights, hotels and ferries can have limited availability during busy periods.
10. Plan Your Return Carefully
If you are returning from Havelock or Neil Island to Chennai on the same day as your flight, allow sufficient buffer for ferry and road transfers.
Is Chennai a Good Starting Point for an Andaman Trip?
Chennai is particularly relevant for travellers planning an Andaman holiday because it has both air and passenger-ship connectivity with Port Blair. The official South Andaman administration specifically lists Chennai among the mainland cities connected to Port Blair by air and identifies passenger-ship services from Chennai.
For travellers with limited leave, the nonstop flight makes it possible to reach Andaman in a few hours rather than spending multiple days at sea.
Travellers who enjoy sea journeys can consider the passenger ship, provided they have enough time and are comfortable with a multi-day voyage.
Chennai to Andaman: Quick Travel Plan
A simple holiday route could look like this:
Day 1: Chennai → Port Blair → Cellular Jail / local sightseeing
Day 2: Port Blair → Swaraj Dweep → Radhanagar Beach
Day 3: Swaraj Dweep → Elephant Beach / local sightseeing
Day 4: Swaraj Dweep → Port Blair
Day 5: Port Blair → Chennai
The exact itinerary should be adjusted according to your flight and ferry schedules.
For longer holidays, Shaheed Dweep and additional sightseeing can be added.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I reach Andaman from Chennai?
You can reach Andaman from Chennai by nonstop flight to Port Blair/Sri Vijaya Puram or by passenger ship from Chennai. For most travellers with limited vacation time, flying is the practical option. The official Andaman administration confirms both air and passenger-ship connectivity between Chennai and Port Blair.
Is there a direct flight from Chennai to Andaman?
Yes. Nonstop flights operate from Chennai International Airport (MAA) to Port Blair (IXZ). Current route information lists a flight duration of roughly 2 hours 10–15 minutes, although schedules can vary by date.
How long is the Chennai to Port Blair flight?
A nonstop Chennai to Port Blair flight takes approximately 2 hours 10–15 minutes, depending on the flight schedule.
What is the distance from Chennai to Andaman?
The approximate air distance between Chennai and Port Blair is around 1,370 km.
How much does a Chennai to Andaman flight cost?
There is no fixed fare. The Chennai to Andaman flight cost depends on the airline, travel date, booking time, seat availability and season. Compare current fares for your exact dates before booking.
Can I travel from Chennai to Andaman by ship?
Yes. Passenger ship services operate between Chennai and Port Blair. The voyage takes much longer than flying, with the official South Andaman administration indicating approximately 50–60 hours during fair weather.
What is the cheapest way to reach Andaman from Chennai?
There is no permanently fixed cheapest option. Compare current flight fares, ship fares and the total cost of accommodation and travel time before deciding.
Which airport should I fly to for Andaman?
Fly to Veer Savarkar International Airport (IXZ) in Sri Vijaya Puram, commonly called Port Blair. It is the principal airport gateway for tourists visiting the Andaman Islands.
How do I reach Havelock from Chennai?
First fly from Chennai to Port Blair. From Port Blair, travel by ferry to Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island). Check the current ferry schedule and allow adequate time between your flight arrival and ferry reporting time.
How do I reach Neil Island from Chennai?
Fly from Chennai to Port Blair and then take an onward ferry to Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island). Ferry schedules vary, so confirm the available sailing before finalizing your itinerary.
How many days are enough for an Andaman trip from Chennai?
A 4–6 night holiday can provide enough time for many first-time travellers to combine Port Blair with Swaraj Dweep and/or Shaheed Dweep. Longer stays allow a more relaxed itinerary.
Is Chennai to Andaman suitable for a family trip?
Yes. Chennai’s direct air connectivity can make the mainland journey convenient for families. Families should pay particular attention to airport transfers, ferry timings, hotel locations and sufficient travel buffers.
Can I plan a honeymoon trip from Chennai to Andaman?
Yes. A Chennai–Andaman honeymoon can combine Port Blair, Swaraj Dweep, beaches, private transfers, couple activities and romantic dining experiences. Plan the ferry and flight connections carefully.
Conclusion
For travellers asking how to reach Andaman from Chennai, there are two principal options: flight and passenger ship. Chennai has direct air connectivity to Port Blair, with the nonstop flight taking roughly 2 hours 10–15 minutes and covering approximately 1,370 km.
Passenger ships also connect Chennai with Port Blair, but the sea journey takes around 50–60 hours or more, depending on conditions and the sailing.
For a typical family holiday, honeymoon, short vacation or weekend-extended trip, planning around the flight and then arranging the required ferry connections is important. If your itinerary includes Swaraj Dweep (Havelock) or Shaheed Dweep (Neil), check the latest ferry schedule before confirming your flights.
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